Cash and conservation: A worldwide analysis of wildlife on money
A global analysis of wildlife on money reveals that native fauna are depicted on 15.2% of banknotes, with a strong bias towards terrestrial species and bird and mammal representations.
Search results for “Wildlife”
1,000+ results for "Wildlife"
Virus that causes COVID-19 is widespread in wildlife, Virginia Tech scientists find
Researchers detected SARS-CoV-2 in six common backyard species, including deer mice, Virginia opossums, and raccoons, with unique viral mutations found in some animals. The study highlights the need for broad surveillance and suggests that areas with high human activity may serve as points of contact for cross-species transmission.
Why are scientists concerned about the effects of non-native horses and burros on natural ecosystems?
New research found that non-native burros are altering plant growth, reducing ground cover and foliage density, and negatively impacting native wildlife species in the Sonoran Desert.
New study: Outdoor recreation noise affects wildlife behavior and habitat use
A recent study published in Current Biology indicates that outdoor recreation noise can trigger a fear response in wildlife, altering their behavior and habitat use. The research, conducted in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, found that different types of recreation noise, group size, and human presence affected animal responses.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Rocky Mountain Research Station·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 13, 2024
Wire snare removal in protected areas is labor-intensive but effective – and essential to solving the Southeast Asian snaring crisis
Intensive wire snare removal efforts reduced snaring by almost 40% in protected areas of Viet Nam, according to an 11-year study. The effectiveness of snare removal was mainly achieved within the first 6 years, but its impact alone is unlikely to protect wildlife due to ongoing snaring threats.
SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalConservation Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 3, 2024
Fatal attraction: When endangered species try to mate with domestic relatives, both wildlife and people lose
A new study highlights the human impacts of endangered species mating with domestic relatives, causing economic loss and death. Conservation efforts are also overlooked for marginalized pastoralist populations, who often lack effective defense against aggressive wild males.
Improving statistical methods to protect wildlife populations
A new study improves statistical methods to protect wildlife populations by considering emigration and immigration processes. This allows for more accurate demographic projections and informed conservation strategies.
SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalBiological Conservation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 21, 2024
Mobile device location data is already used by private companies, so why not for studying human-wildlife interactions, scientists ask
Researchers argue that mobility data can help understand human-wildlife interactions and inform policy decisions on sustainability-related issues. They propose aggregating datasets without personal identifiers to make them accessible to researchers, benefiting both conservation and private companies.
New research highlights effects of gentrification on urban wildlife populations across U.S. cities
A study led by Lincoln Park Zoo's Urban Wildlife Institute found that gentrified areas have more urban wildlife, limiting access to nature for marginalized communities. The analysis of data from 23 cities showed a 13% increase in species diversity in gentrified neighborhoods.
SourceLincoln Park Zoo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateApr 15, 2024
Virginia Tech study considers ways to increase accessibility for all wildlife enthusiasts
Researchers found that birders with disabilities face constraints such as lack of accessible features and safety concerns, but also expressed interest in access to high-quality birding locations and information. The study aims to promote broader social inclusion for people with disabilities through wildlife recreation.
Global wildlife study during COVID-19 shows rural animals are more sensitive to human activity
A global wildlife study during COVID-19 lockdowns found that animal responses to humans varied by landscape conditions and trophic group. Herbivores became more active around humans, while carnivores tended to avoid them.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateMar 18, 2024
New study shows how AI can help us better understand global threats to wildlife
A new AI-powered study reveals the global extent of threats to bats from hunting and trade, using online records from social media platforms. The research identifies 22 new countries involved in bat exploitation, covering regions such as Bahrain, Spain, and Sri Lanka.
SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalConservation Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2024
Facing illegal wildlife trade in the European union: A call for comprehensive measures
A new study proposes three measures to improve the EU's response to illegal wildlife trade, including creating a database of all species trade and establishing regulations to prohibit the import of illegally captured specimens. The proposals aim to transform the EU into a model of environmental protection concerning wildlife trade.
Breakthrough discovery will improve medical monitoring, preventive care for elephants
Researchers at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance have made a groundbreaking discovery that establishes individual baseline values for African elephant blood cell counts, enabling earlier detection and intervention of clinical EEHV infection. This study provides a tool for elephant care facilities to improve preventive medicine and lifesa...
SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalJournal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 5, 2024
Avian influenza virus is adapting to spread to marine mammals
A study found that the avian influenza virus H5N1 has adapted to spread between birds and marine mammals, with nearly identical genome sequences detected in four sea lions, one fur seal, and a tern. The virus's ability to infect birds remains unchanged, while its transmission among marine mammals is concerning.
Climate change threatens older elephants most, jeopardizing African elephants’ future
A new study by UMass Amherst and the Wildlife Conservation Society finds that climate change disproportionately affects older African elephants, who will have decreased chances of survival. This can lead to a ripple effect on their ecosystems and cultures, highlighting the need for coordinated management strategies at all levels.
SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalPLOS Sustainability and Transformation·DateJan 31, 2024
New findings reveal koalas’ health risks following bushfires, will aid in future rescue efforts
A new study has provided critical information for improving koala care during subsequent fire seasons. Koalas affected by the Australian bushfires were found to have severe footpad burns and lung damage due to smoke inhalation, hindering their tree-climbing abilities and escape from fires.
New method could help estimate wildlife disease spread
A new method can help estimate the prevalence of disease in free-ranging wildlife by accounting for animal clustering. This approach may reduce the number of samples needed to detect a disease. The researchers focused on Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer, which tends to cluster in family groups, making this method particularly useful.
SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Agricultural Biological and Environmental Statistics·DateDec 18, 2023
New study identifies the greatest threat to wildlife across North America and Canada: people
A new study compiled over 600,000 records from US and Canadian wildlife rehabilitation centers to investigate the threats facing more than a thousand species by region, highlighting human activities such as climate change and extreme weather events
SourceBoston University·JournalBiological Conservation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 4, 2023
The sound of injustice: Inequitable urban noise impacts people, wildlife
A study by Colorado State University found that redlined communities experience higher maximum noise levels, detrimental effects on urban ecosystems, and increased human health risks like hearing loss and stress. The research highlights the need for equitable planning and noise mitigation to benefit both people and wildlife.
SourceColorado State University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2023
First comprehensive look at effects of 2020-2021 California megafires on terrestrial wildlife habitat
Researchers investigated the effects of megafires on California's wildlife habitat, analyzing over 600 species. They found that high-severity fires impacted 100 species, with 16 considered conservation concern, yet some species may find refuge in unaffected habitats.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Rocky Mountain Research Station·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 20, 2023
“Wolves like cherry-picking”: Modelling shows how they recolonized Germany and where they could live in the future
A team of scientists from the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research found that grey wolves' habitat selection changes during recolonization in Germany, moving from early-stage 'cherry-picking' to late-stage less-selective choices. This shift affects predictions of wolf distribution and expansion in the country.
SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalDiversity and Distributions·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 16, 2023
Georgetown Global Health Center launches first open-access wildlife disease database
The Georgetown Global Health Center has launched PHAROS, a first-of-its-kind wildlife disease database that collects records of viruses and bacteria in wild animals. The platform aims to predict pandemics like the weather by allowing scientists to share and manage their data, with the goal of making 'one health' a data-driven field.
Cary Institute partners on $3M USDA-funded study on COVID-19 variants that could emerge from wildlife
A new five-year research project combines AI, virology, and ecology to anticipate future SARS-CoV-2 strains that could pass between animals and people. The team will use artificial intelligence to predict variants and assess risk of spillover from people to wildlife.
Framework provides guidance for ethical wildlife management
A new framework has been developed to guide ethical decision-making in wildlife management. The framework integrates three domains: moral theory, principle- and rule-based approaches, and virtue ethical therapy.
Scientists uncover cause of mysterious deaths of elephants in Zimbabwe
Researchers discovered a bacterium, Bisgaard taxon 45, responsible for the deaths of six elephants in Zimbabwe and possibly more in neighboring countries. The finding highlights infectious diseases as a threat to endangered African elephant populations.
U-M-led study investigates lions' interactions with humans in a diminishing habitat
A new U-M-led study found that lions tend to avoid human-dominated areas unless facing food scarcity and habitat fragmentation. The study suggests expanding human land use and climate change could increase human-lion conflict, threatening lion populations.
Caution, ocelot crossing: special wildlife exits on busy roads help protect endangered cat
A study found that wildlife exits designed for ocelots in Texas were used by 10 mammal species, including bobcats and coyotes, to exit highways. The exits function as designed, but ongoing research aims to improve their effectiveness.
Why endangered wildlife needs AML law coverage and banks need to share IWT intelligence
The illegal wildlife trade is a significant financial portfolio that creates state-level security and development risks. Implementing AML laws and sharing intelligence with banks can boost IWT law enforcement. Countries like Singapore, UK, and Australia are making progress in combating money laundering and IWT.
SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalJournal of Money Laundering Control·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 26, 2023
Wildlife mitigating measures no help for Ottawa’s freshwater turtles
A new study by uOttawa and Trent University found that the development of Terry Fox Drive in Ottawa has led to a 70% decline in Blanding's turtle populations despite wildlife fencing and new wetlands. The researchers predict that the turtle will reach quasi-extinction threshold within the next few years.
Testing 58 wildlife species for SARS-CoV-2 among goals of $4.5M USDA grant
A team of researchers led by Penn State aims to test 58 wildlife species for SARS-CoV-2 using a $4.5M USDA grant. The goal is to monitor potential spillback to humans and understand cross-species transmission, which poses a risk to human health and agricultural systems.
Mason researchers studying zoonotic transmission pathways
Researchers are investigating unknown transmission pathways between humans and wildlife, particularly with white-tailed deer, to predict the risk of spillover. The project aims to integrate these pathways into a modeling framework to mitigate zoonotic disease spread.
What’s the best way to prevent tuberculosis transmission from wildlife to cattle?
Researchers analyzed data from 31 studies and found that cattle face a higher risk of getting tuberculosis from wildlife through indirect interactions. Indirect interaction rates were 154 times higher than direct interaction rates.
Pollutants are important to biodiversity’s role in spread of wildlife diseases
Research found that increased biodiversity can either help or hinder disease outbreaks in wildlife, depending on environmental conditions. Environmental pollutants like road salt changed the susceptibility of amphibian species to parasites, with higher biodiversity communities experiencing a dilution effect when exposed to pollutants.
Booster shot being developed to avoid recapturing koalas to fight Chlamydia disease
QUT researchers have created a booster vaccine using implant technology to protect wild koalas from Chlamydia disease. The new device allows for in-the-field vaccination without recapturing the animals, reducing human interference and increasing vaccination efficiency.
Study: Vaccination campaign in Cambodia protects endangered wild cattle from highly contagious potentially fatal skin disease
A vaccination campaign in Cambodia has successfully protected endangered wild cattle from lumpy skin disease (LSD), a highly contagious viral disease. The campaign, launched in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society, has vaccinated over 20,000 domestic cattle and water buffalo to prevent the spread of LSD to wild ruminants.
SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2023
The war-damaged urban environment in Kharkiv is fatal for bats
The war in Ukraine has severe consequences for urban wildlife, with 45.1% of Common Noctule bat wintering roosts destroyed or damaged by shelling. This led to the direct killing of approximately 7,000 bats and entrapment of thousands more.
SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalJournal of Applied Animal Ethics Research·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2023
Study reveals successful strategies for removing invasive caimans from Florida Everglades
Scientists successfully removed invasive spectacled caimans from specific areas of the Everglades, reducing competition with native alligators and crocodiles. The efforts demonstrate early detection, rapid response, and persistent removal can effectively control invasive species, with implications for other invasive species management.
Global wildlife trade risks altering evolutionary history and ecosystem function, study suggests
Researchers warn that unsustainable wildlife trade could alter key ecological processes in biodiverse regions, leading to losses of evolutionary history. The study highlights the need for conservation resources to be directed towards tropical hotspots to prevent extinctions.
Surveying public tolerance of lethal wildlife management in Japan
A survey of 1,000 Japanese respondents found that people's attitudes towards lethal wildlife management (LWM) were more species-specific than previously thought. Largemouth basses, crows, and wild boars were deemed most acceptable for LWM, while carp, parrots, and monkeys were considered the least acceptable. The study also revealed no...
How to track animal of legend? Look to the poop
A team of researchers used genetic and isotopic analyses to study jaguar scat in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Preserve, revealing habitat needs and conservation insights. The study demonstrates a novel approach to surveying wildlife without direct interaction.
SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalEuropean Journal of Wildlife Research·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 2023
Five new embryos and new surrogate mothers added to the Northern White Rhino BioRescue project
The BioRescue project has made significant progress in creating cryopreserved northern white rhino embryos, with a recent collection yielding five new embryos. The consortium is also identifying and selecting wild southern white rhino females as potential surrogate mothers to support the breeding efforts.
More than 900 at-risk animal and plant species not covered by global trade protections, new research shows
A new study identifies hundreds of at-risk animal and plant species without corresponding protection from international trade. The list includes Endangered and Critically Endangered animals and plants, such as shark and ray species, palm species, and songbird species.
New study is first to find exposure to neurotoxic rodenticide bromethalin in birds of prey
A recent study by Tufts Wildlife Clinic found that approximately 30% of hawks and owls were positive for exposure to neurotoxic rodenticide bromethalin. This discovery expands upon the previous research on anticoagulant rodenticides, which showed that all red-tailed hawks tested were positive for ARs.
SourceTufts University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 11, 2023
Global study finds while humans sheltered in place, wildlife roamed
A global study found that wildlife, including goats and coyotes, roamed freely in cities during the COVID-19 pandemic, while human activity decreased. The study tracked GPS data from 2,300 land mammals across 43 species, showing significant changes in animal behavior in response to human lockdowns.
Wildlife crossing guards
Scientists identified habitats and simulated solutions like conservation buffers and open-bottom culverts to allow safe passage for salamanders and other wildlife. The model boosts ecological connectivity while reducing costs compared to large-scale barrier removal.
Study results show lead hunting ammunition hinders bald eagle recovery, resiliency
A new study published in Wildlife Society Bulletin reveals that lead exposure from hunting ammunition is sickening and killing bald eagles, making them more susceptible to other dangers. The research, funded by Morris Animal Foundation, used innovative modeling tools to demonstrate the impact of lead poisoning on eagle populations.
Research questions value of sagebrush control in conserving sage grouse
A nine-year experimental study found that mowing and herbicide application did not benefit sage grouse populations in central Wyoming. In fact, reducing Wyoming big sagebrush cover may negatively impact the birds' food sources and nesting sites.
Integrating robotics into wildlife conservation: enhancing predator deterrents through innovative movement strategies
A new study integrates robotics into wildlife conservation, enhancing predator deterrents through automated movement and adaptiveness. The findings demonstrate improved survival times and increased efficacy of protection against livestock predation.
Woodpecker guides post-fire forest management
A new online tool predicts the potential abundance of Black-backed Woodpeckers after fire by incorporating pyrodiversity into forest management decisions. This helps balance human and wildlife needs in post-fire landscapes.
SourceCornell University·JournalEcological Applications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 25, 2023
Drones over Texas reveal agricultural damage caused by wild pigs
Researchers used drones to capture images of corn fields damaged by wild pigs in Texas, finding an average loss of 3,416 kg of corn per hectare and a direct cost to producers of up to $48.24 per hectare. The damage occurred mainly in later growth stages, when corn ears were maturing.
Hyenas die also in road accidents
A long-term study reveals that the risk of fatal collisions between vehicles and spotted hyenas in the Serengeti is influenced by road characteristics and the annual migration of large ungulate herds. Adult females are most frequently run over, likely due to their regular travel distances between dens and migrating prey herds.
SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalBiological Conservation·DateApr 6, 2023
Environmental impact reports hugely underestimate consequences for wildlife
A study from the University of East Anglia found that environmental impact assessments often fail to account for species movement between sites, leading to underestimated impacts on wildlife. The research highlights a planned airport development in Portugal that could affect over 10 times the number of Black-tailed Godwits estimated by...
Lynx reintroduction in Scotland? It’s complicated
A new study in Scotland reveals that stakeholders have diverse and nuanced views on potential lynx reintroduction, with disagreements over sheep farming and ecosystem management. The research highlights the need for a participatory approach to discuss the issue.
Conserving wildlife can help mitigate climate change
A new study by Yale University researchers suggests that protecting wildlife can significantly enhance natural carbon capture and storage. By conserving or restoring populations of nine key species, the world can collectively facilitate the additional capture of 6.41 billion tons of carbon dioxide annually.
Sea otters killed by unusual parasite strain
A recent study has identified a rare strain of Toxoplasma gondii, COUG, in sea otters that caused fatal steatitis and toxoplasmosis. The strain is virulent and can rapidly kill healthy adult otters, posing a health threat to other marine wildlife and humans.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 22, 2023
Study confirms Norway-sized swath of mountain forest lost between 2001-2018
A WCS-coauthored study reveals global mountain forests are vanishing at an accelerating rate, with 78.1 million hectares lost worldwide between 2001-2018. Protected areas played a crucial role in retaining forest habitat and conserving wildlife, but other conservation strategies must be considered to safeguard mountain forests.
Knowing your ants from your anteaters: are wildlife documentaries showing us the ‘real’ natural world?
A study found that wildlife documentaries highlight vertebrate species, such as mammals and birds, while underrepresenting invertebrates like insects. This biased portrayal risks leaving people with an inaccurate impression of nature's state.
Human-wildlife conflicts rising worldwide with climate change
A new study reveals climate-driven conflicts between humans and wildlife are on the rise globally, with six continents experiencing exacerbation of these conflicts. The research identifies trends in human-wildlife conflicts linked to climate change, including altered animal habitats, resource availability, and changes in wildlife behav...
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 27, 2023
Operation Pangolin launches to save world’s most trafficked wild mammal
The Operation Pangolin project aims to save the world's eight pangolin species by generating data to inform conservation strategies and implementing wildlife crime prevention efforts in Central Africa. The team will use novel technology and artificial intelligence methods to address the illicit wildlife trade and prevent extinction.